hid, BiXenon, xenon, retrofitting, conclusively ruled out

FUBAR · Post by **FUBAR** » 01 Jan 2008, 21:31

I have to admit (childish as it is) that these new types of headlights are really cool, and I would love to have a pair, but haven't rushed into buying anything right away. After extensive research I have come to the conclusion that: 1. Volvo US-spec Bi-Xenon are weak(according to many complaints), Euro-spec is more powerful(but not DOT or SAE approved, thus illegal), http://www.vivaperformance.com/catalog/ ... cts_id=382 2. There is not one single retrofitting hid kit that is legit(although many vendors claim that it is). That's right, they're all lying through their teeth. Hid bulbs have a different burn pattern that requires an HID reflector(you will get flashed by oncoming traffic, or even ticketed). 3. Best solution I have found is piaa extreme white replacement bulbs -best power, street legal. I would love to hear from someone who has a view on the topic as well.
investigation of conversion kits by autoexpress magazine:

mune237 · Post by **mune237** » 04 Mar 2008, 10:37

Well, my 97 850R's lights suck, especially on dark rainy mornings, which when you live in western WA state is 90% of the time.
Using the R's fogs only helps a VERY little (I have PIAA ion crystal fog bulbs)
I've been using PIAAs for decades. But 9006 bulbs are almost as much as a good HID kit. So I'm going to try it. I'm also exchanging my DOT lenses for e-codes. I also know I'll have to align the lamps when I'm done. I'm going to use my stock lamp assys at first. If this doesn't get the desired effect, I'll get some projectors (only 2 types I know of).
Anyhow I'll report out later.

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 04 Mar 2008, 15:33

This was offered as a European option. Part number is included. Don't get your hopes up but you might check with your local dealer and/or www.bostonVolvo.com (Call them and ask for John in Parts):

mune237 · Post by **mune237** » 04 Mar 2008, 15:42

Are you refering to those accessory lamps?
Those arn't an option, I wouldn't even consider them for my Silverado.
But I have thought of using PIAAs super small fogs, and custom fit them somehow to where the factory 850R fogs are now. I have experience with fiberglass and composites, but I'm hoping the HID experiment will work out. I'll be using 35W 4300K 9006s
Thanks for the reply

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 04 Mar 2008, 16:18

Yeah, I thought you might not...just pointing out that there are ways to get more light. Sorry if it offended you.

mune237 · Post by **mune237** » 04 Mar 2008, 20:24

No offense taken.
I do appreciate the time you took to reply.

wallie · Post by **wallie** » 27 Mar 2008, 18:27

I'm in the process of finishing up a projector retrofit on my 97 854R, using a set of M45 Infinity projectors and a set of black crystal led headlights all from ebay. This looks like it might be a good alternative to the stock lighting, I also put a 5000k hid kit in the stock fog lights. I've only bench tested both setups because the car is still up for the winter but I'm happy with the outputs so far.

In my dd I did a 5000k hid kit with e-code lenses and the difference is well worth it. You can aim the e-codes so you're not getting flashed and still have more usable light on the road as compared to stock, I had Osram Silver Stars before the upgrade. I'm putting parts together now to do a retro in the dd.

mune237 · Post by **mune237** » 31 Mar 2008, 12:36

OK I finally installed my 4300K 35W HIDs in my stock reflectors with e-code lenses, after correctly aiming them, I don't know what the fuss would be. With the e-codes there's a definite cutoff vertically, and both beams are pointed at the right side of the road. Looks like my Silverado's beam pattern. I have not yet been flashed.

I can't believe the difference, I can finally see the road. At the moment I see no reason to spend money on jewels or ?

1997 850R

Post by **srnkanator** » 13 May 2008, 10:21

I recommend www.sharphid.com

35W 6000K is what I have with slim the ballasts. DOT approved and plug and play. $150 shipped w/a lifetime warranty.

mune237 · Post by **mune237** » 13 May 2008, 11:39

These HID kits are only DOT approved if you are replacing bulbs on a car that has OE HIDs.
If you are upgrading from halogens, this is NOT DOT approved
So ANY/ALL 850s using these are non-DOT compliant
The deal is...aim them correctly, and you won't draw attention to yourself.
If you can see clearly into the car in front of you.....